Kepler celebrated the graduation of 146 students during its 9th commencement ceremony in partnership with Southern New Hampshire University, on November 1, highlighting the diverse journeys and academic achievements of its graduates. The cohort comprised 54.9 per cent women and 45.1 per cent men, with 63.9 per cent identified as non-refugees and 36.1 per cent as refugees. Among the graduates, 70.1 percent earned degrees in management, logistics, and operations, while 24.3 per cent specialised in communication, and 5.6 per cent focused on healthcare management and global perspectives. Employment data indicated that 54 per cent of graduates are currently employed, while 23 per cent are engaged in internships, reflecting the university’s commitment to preparing students for the workforce. Since its inception in 2004 as Orphans of Rwanda, Kepler has dedicated itself to supporting vulnerable Rwandan students, refocusing its mission in 2013 to enhance access to gainful employment through partnerships that facilitate competency-based U.S. bachelor's degrees. ALSO READ: Over 160 students graduate with US-accredited degrees at Kepler The Vice President of Global Initiatives and Executive Director of Global Education Movement at Southern New Hampshire University, Rachael Sears, commended the new graduates on reaching a remarkable milestone. She added that they are celebrating not only their hard work, resilience, and dedication but also the limitless perspective they carry forward as they step into the world as graduates. “You are equipped with knowledge and skills that have the power to uplift not only your lives but also your communities. As you go out there, use this potential to give back, to inspire, and to create lasting change wherever you go,” she said. The Minister of State for Education, Claudette Irere, encouraged the graduates to remain humble and willing to learn, emphasising the importance of their achievement while underscoring the responsibility that comes with their education. “Each of you has what it takes to ensure our society continues to thrive, and as you walk out of these doors today, you will see memories and greatness. I encourage you to be the tool, the mechanism, and carry that in each workplace and role you are fortunate to be serving, and always remember that your commitment as a just voice to uplift the refugee communities is nothing short of remarkable,” she stated. She pointed out the importance of preparing future generations for a complex world, acknowledging the challenges society faces and the technological advancements that promise progress. “When you walk into these doors, you are handed a level playing field, despite your different personal circumstances. Take care of yourselves; your physical and mental health are equally important. This country needs a whole new view of security,” she added. ALSO READ: Kepler: Empowering refugee students to build a future The Chancellor of Kepler College, Monica Geingos, urged the graduates to remember that they gained invaluable skills that will empower them to not only shape their own lives but also impact those around them. “Embrace the unknown, for it is in those moments of uncertainty that your true potential will shine as you go out in the world. I want you to always remember that you are truly the leaders of tomorrow, visionaries who can drive change and uplift communities,” she said. Geingos pointed out that while they are entering a world filled with opportunities, particularly in Rwanda’s burgeoning economy, they must also embrace the responsibility that comes with it, encouraging them to navigate this complexity with the critical thinking and leadership skills they’ve developed at Kepler. Nathalie Munyampenda, the Chief Executive Officer of Kepler, addressed the graduates with a powerful message about the importance of hard work, cautioning them against the prevailing belief that great achievement can come easily. “We are noticing that there is a prevailing thought that you can achieve great things without hard work. It has never been, nor will it ever be, possible to achieve anything without hard work. Whether you choose to be a farmer, a trader, a model, or a content creator, there is never a path to success without hard work,” she said. She highlighted the importance of personal growth, emphasising the value of self-improvement over comparison to others, and reminded the graduates that setbacks are part of the journey. “Run your race; try to be better for yourself, and no matter how many times you fail, remember you can always start again,” she added. One of the graduates, a refugee, James Rurwanyintare, expressed how happy he was for his achievement and what it means for his background, emphasizing the importance of resilience and the transformative power of education. He said: “Graduating today is not just a personal achievement; it symbolises the hopes and dreams of many who have supported me throughout my journey. I am determined to use my education to make a positive impact in my community and to inspire others facing similar challenges. This experience has taught me that with hard work and perseverance, we can overcome any obstacle. I believe that education is a powerful tool for change and I am committed to giving back and helping others reach their potential.
